About James Thomson
Lived 1790 – 1876 (aged 85). James Thomson was an American politician and businessperson.
James Thomson (December 18, 1790 – August 10, 1876), served as Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1841 to 1842.
Early life Thomson was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, in 1790 and arrived in Pittsburgh in 1812. From 1812 to 1825, he operated a jewelry store, making and repairing watches on Market Street. In 1825, he began an engine building business.
After office After one term as mayor, Mr. Thomson renewed his energies in the engine fabrication industry. His firm also built railroad freight cars.
From 1853 until 1871, Thomson was the engineer for the Pittsburgh Gas Works. He is buried in Allegheny Cemetery.
Don’t just read it —
keep it.
Full-length biographies made to live with: read them, listen on the way to work, watch them tonight.
- E-book
- Audio
- Video
Instant download · yours to keep · every purchase keeps this site free
Important facts
Related people
Same field, nearest in time
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped James Thomson's
Frequently asked questions
Who was James Thomson?
Mayor of Pittsburgh, born 1790
When was James Thomson born?
James Thomson was born on 18 December 1790 in Franklin County.
When did James Thomson die?
James Thomson died on 10 August 1876.
What was James Thomson's occupation?
James Thomson was a politician and businessperson.
What nationality was James Thomson?
James Thomson was American.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: James Thomson (Pittsburgh mayor)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). James Thomson. https://biography.guide/james-thomson-politician-1790/
MLA: "James Thomson." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/james-thomson-politician-1790/.
Chicago: "James Thomson." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/james-thomson-politician-1790/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
Page generated 2026-09-27 05:23 UTC